Sandusky, OH to Chicago

[truk911]

Anyone make the trip? We are planning to move a new to us (closing in a couple weeks) 400 Sedan Bridge from Sandusky, OH to Chicago. Our tenative plan would be to leave on the Friday before Labor Day and be in Chicago within 5-7 days based on weather conditions.

Any places to see or avoid along the way. I would appreciate any comments or recommendations.

 

[RollerCoastr]

I've visited about every port between Sandusky and Petoskey Mich. CSR has several Lake Michigan experts, so I'm sure we can hook you up.

My advice always starts the same way, but I don't think it's ever taken: relax! that's an awesome trip, and it's a shame to rush through it.

If you're not already, get familiar with Active Captain. It's a great resource for up-to-date navigation, port and sometimes fuel info.

Sandusky has a "mini" West Marine. A full-size store is about 20 mins away in Catawba. For last-minute parts and repairs, Marine Discounters on 1st Street carries a surprising inventory (including Westerbeke).

Fuel prices at Cedar Point are usually competitive. Put-In Bay is one of the best stops in the Great Lakes, but the holiday wkd will make finding dockage challenging. It's also somewhat of a false start, only 17 miles into your journey.

In decent seas, you can get into Lake St Claire in 4 hours.

 

[Gary Hill]

I would reccomend spending a day at the top of our mitten. Beautiful up there with the bridge and Macinac Island. The island is a must see if you have never been there. The east side of Lake Michigan has many nice ports. Can't really think of any to stay away from at the moment